Analysing the Linkages Between Life Course Theory and Piracy from a Socio-Legal Prism

Abstract

Given the intractable nature of piracy, the crime is best examined through life course theory, which provides a nuanced understanding of the social, structural, and environmental factors that contribute to its emergence. Using a desk research methodology, this article explores the relationship between piracy and life-course trajectories, arguing that the theory is pivotal in explaining the causes of piratical acts. It highlights factors that influence life trajectories, such as poverty, unemployment, inefficient maritime enforcement agencies, and political subjugation that intersect to foster piracy, situating these dynamics within the environmental criminology framework. The article contends that the life course theory offers a distinctive lens for analysing piracy through environmental criminology and proposes socio-legal measures to suppress the crime. This approach introduces a multilayered exploration of piracy, deepens understanding of it causes, and outlines prevention and prosecutorial strategies aimed at reducing its prevalence.